Statement from State Senator Gustavo Rivera on Governor Cuomo's Proposal to Fund College Degree Programs for Prisoners

"In my time as an elected official, I have strongly advocated that our state's incarcerated population - as part of their rehabilitation - has the resources and tools necessary to successfully re-enter into society," said State Senator Gustavo Rivera. "Investing in education, particularly for those New Yorkers in the penal system, lays the groundwork for a better future, increased work opportunities, lowers recidivism and will not only decrease crime in our communities, but will cost the taxpayers less money. I commend Governor Cuomo for this initiative and urge those that have criticized it to reexamine the benefits such a program will create for all of New York State."